So...you drove all the way to Hana...and now are looking for something to do? This secluded little beach is a great option. Many people have said to park at the Community Center, but they clearly mark their lot for official business only, so you will be better off parking on the street, or in the parking lot on the northeast corner of the nearby Hana Ball Park. From there, walk through the lawn on the south side of the Community Center until you reach a narrow trail midway along the southern edge. It can be a bit overgrown at times, but if you keep following the trail, it quickly opens up as it hugs the shoreline, curving back north. The path isn't in too bad condition (despite the multiple warning signs), but you should still exercise caution as there are jagged rocks and steep cliffs in spots. Probably not a place for elderly or young children. After only a short 10-minute walk, you arrive at an amphitheater-like beach with coarse red sand and a natural lava rock breakwall that keeps the waves down. There is also vegetation at the back of the beach for shade if you so desire. As others have mentioned, water shoes are recommended because the water is rocky in spots. Pack a lunch (or take out from the couple of nearby food trucks), and enjoy a few hours. Just be aware that there are no facilities, and many people do...
Read moreThis is one of those ‘hidden gems ‘. You’ll see other cars parked. Please be respectful of other people’s property and get out of the way. The road is very narrow and has large potholes on the side. When we went we ended up at the end of the road and some genius sat behind us making it a pain to try and u turn. By the time I did and parked, then they decided to back out of the road after flailing their arms at me. Not sure what their malfunction was but just don’t be like them. Be calm, courteous and patient- you’re in HAWAII!! Once you park, follow the directions to cross the field towards the tree line. You’ll see the path as you enter the tree line. We read a lot that said ‘be wary’ ‘don’t take kids’ ‘experienced hikers only ‘. Realistically: be cautious if it just rained as it is a natural path and will be slippery. We saw kids, seniors and everyone in between! Just be smart. If your kids are going to run ahead don’t take them! Younger kids should not be taken if they tend to run ahead. They can easily lose footing or slip on the needles. If they’re calmer and attentive you’ll be fine. I was only 1 of 3 ppl that actually swam. Although there’s a barrier the current was strong and there was a steep drop off. Basically like anything else in life be responsible and enjoy and that’s all there is to it! Don’t take...
Read moreGreat spot for sunrise!
We stayed the night in Hana so it was easy to make it here for the sunrise. I just wish we had gotten there a little earlier (30-45 minutes before google says the sun will rise), but it was so beautiful! You watch the sunrise from a little spot before the actual red sand beach, but then it’s another small hike to the beach.
It’s not too hard to find the trail, but as others have said you park somewhere near the baseball field and then walk down ua’kea road (the dead end road with the School on your left as you’re walking). There will be a little field on your left after the school and it’s pretty easy to see from there. You turn left onto the path in the photo I’ve posted.
The hike itself is totally fine and not really dangerous at all (unless you don’t know how to walk straight). You can easily make it in sandals but once you get to the beach you’ll want some more solid shoes (like tevas or keens) to explore on the rocks.
Highly recommend stopping to...
Read more